Fountain House Lahore - integrating psychosocial rehabilitation and microfinancing in a holistic model of mental health recovery

In Pakistan, mental health disorders constitute an escalating global burden of disease. Under-resourced healthcare systems coupled with recent economic and environmental challenges exacerbate mental health distress and impedes the recovery of those suffering from mental health issues. Psychosocial rehabilitation provides a sustainable pathway to strengthen health systems capacity by focusing on functional recovery and community reintegration. Since 1971, Fountain House has been providing psychosocial rehabilitation to people suffering from mental health issues in Pakistan through its community-based social services. Poverty is both a cause and consequence of mental illness. Akhuwat, a non-profit organization, aims to address this gap by providing interest-free micro loans, vocational training and subsidized health and housing assistance to those deprived of formal financial services. This article explores early outcomes of a collaborative venture between Fountain House and Akhuwat, working at the intersection of poverty and mental health with the combined goal of psychosocial rehabilitation and economic empowerment.